Tinubu: My Administration Shields No One From the Law
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that his administration does not shield any individual or group from legal consequences, regardless of political affiliation. He stated that his government neither obstructs investigations nor interferes with prosecutions, emphasising that no one is above the law.
Speaking at the opening of a joint Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and National Judicial Institute (NJI) Workshop for Justices and Judges on Monday in Abuja, Tinubu said a corruption-free Nigeria is attainable if all citizens commit to doing what is right within their spheres of influence.
The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, urged the judiciary to remain impartial, steadfast, and incorruptible in the delivery of justice. He cautioned that the decay of any nation begins when those entrusted with interpreting the law become compromised.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of judicial officers, noting that recent salary reviews were part of a broader effort to enhance judicial independence.
“We draw our moral distinction as a people from the judiciary, and we owe it the reverence and autonomy to remain the last sanctuary of our collective conscience,” he said.
Addressing public criticism over delays in high-profile corruption cases, Tinubu acknowledged that the justice system must ensure timely and transparent adjudication.
“The theme of this year’s workshop, ‘Enhancing Justice in the Fight Against Economic and Financial Crimes,’ is timely, especially as many Nigerians express frustration over slow trials in corruption cases while cybercrime cases are concluded swiftly,” he said.
Defending his administration’s stance on accountability, Tinubu stressed:
“No person or group can accuse this administration of protecting political allies. We have allowed the judiciary and anti-graft agencies to exercise their constitutional powers without interference.”
The President disclosed that the EFCC had secured over 7,000 convictions and recovered more than ₦500 billion in assets within the first two years of his administration. He added that the recovered funds were being channelled into social investment initiatives, including the Students Loan Scheme and the Consumer Credit Programme.
On the growing complexity of financial crimes, Tinubu called for continuous learning within the judiciary, noting the rise of cases involving cryptocurrency and blockchain transactions.
“How does one deliver justice in a cryptocurrency fraud case without understanding the technology? Continuous learning is no longer optional but essential for relevance in this digital age,” he remarked.
He reminded judicial officers that corruption spares no one:
“Your position on the Bench does not exempt you from the effects of corruption. There are no special roads, hospitals, or communities for judges. A corruption-free Nigeria is possible if each of us does what is right.”
Judiciary, Lawmakers, and EFCC Echo Call for Integrity
Chief Justice of Nigeria and NJI Board Chair, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, underscored the judiciary’s vital role in sustaining national stability. She urged judges to exercise firm control over court proceedings and ensure that justice is neither delayed nor denied.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno, said combating corruption required collaboration among the legislature, the judiciary, and the public. He pledged the National Assembly’s continued support in equipping law enforcement agencies to eliminate graft.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede (SAN), highlighted that the Supreme Court’s recent ruling affirming the EFCC’s mandate had further strengthened anti-corruption efforts. He said the Commission’s achievements — including 4,111 convictions and “humongous” asset recoveries — would not have been possible without an efficient judiciary.
NJI Administrator, B.A. Adejumo, added that the annual workshop had become a cornerstone in Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive, stressing that “no nation can progress without confronting corruption.”
Tinubu Approves New Law School Auditorium
In a related development, Tinubu approved the construction of a new auditorium for the Nigerian Law School, Abuja Campus, as part of efforts to strengthen legal education.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, announced the approval during the flag-off of a 600-capacity student hostel at the Law School in Bwari, Abuja.
Wike said the President granted the approval immediately after he raised concerns over inadequate space in the existing auditorium.
“This shows that when issues are presented properly, a responsive leader like Mr. President will always act swiftly,” Wike said.
He added that the project reflects the Tinubu administration’s commitment to improving legal education and learning environments.
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), commended both Tinubu and Wike for their interventions, describing them as a “true reflection of the Renewed Hope Agenda in action.”
Fagbemi also praised Wike’s longstanding contributions to legal education, noting his role in developing top-tier campuses of the Nigerian Law School in Yenagoa and Port Harcourt.
Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma (SAN), thanked the President and the FCT Minister for their sustained support, saying the projects would greatly enhance the quality of legal training in the country.
